Kids & Family

Magician from Contra Costa County Earns National Honor; Books Bay Area Shows

Announcement from Alex Ramon #NewMagic

Local magician Alex Ramon, 29, was recognized for his achievements in the world of magic over the July 4th weekend, winning the historic Milbourne Christopher Award at a convention in St. Louis, Mo. -- placing him in the ranks of elite magicians. 

Ramon of Richmond is the youngest magician to be recognized for this honor, which was given before 1,500 attendees at the convention hosted by the Society of American Magicians and the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

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The Milbourne Christopher Award, dedicated to the memory of the American magician and author, recognizes “notable contributions to the art of magic,” and “excellence in the magical arts.” 

Previous winners of the award include Siegfried and Roy, David Copperfield, Harry Blackstone, Jr. and Lance Burton.

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“Only 20 magicians in history have ever received this award,” Ramon said. “I was just humbled and speechless to join a group of magicians I admire and respect. It’s just unbelievable.”

The Milbourne Christopher Foundation was established to keep magic on a level with other popular entertainments, like dance, drama, and music, and to encourage excellence. A board of experts in the field of magic decides on the award winners.

This is not the first time that this young magician has made history. 

During the award ceremony Ramon was cited for his groundbreaking work onstage, first, at age 21 with a touring Disney show, then at 23, for two seasons as the second-youngest ringmaster (and the first magician ringmaster) in the history of Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, “The Greatest Show on Earth.” Most recently, Ramon’s show quickly became the leading attraction in Lake Tahoe.

This summer, he begins a West Coast tour with his new show, “#NewMagic.”

“There’s nothing more exciting than touring. I’m going to be performing in the Bay Area, this summer, and then in Southern California later this year,” he said. 

 “I’ve included brand new illusions and costumes,” Ramon says. One feat, called The Acoustic Levitation, was a special challenge. “We worked on it for two years before we perfected it. I actually levitate someone on top of a sound wave. When it was finally finished, I actually amazed myself!”

“#NewMagic” is Alex Ramon’s modern, fast-paced effort to modernize this ancient art form. “It really is a family friendly show, and after years of experience, I can promise that it has something for everyone,” he said. 

#NewMagic performances in the Bay Area:      

 


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